Responsible leadership for sustainable performance: a study of green orchestration innovation in Indonesian universities

Purpose This study investigated the role of responsible leadership in improving sustainable performance grounded in the natural resource-based view. Further, it explored green orchestration innovation as an underlying mechanism of mediation. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a cross-sectional research design. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 227 academic staff from various universities in Indonesia. The proposed hypotheses were analysed using SmartPLS 4.0 and a structural equation modelling (SEM-PLS) approach. Findings Responsible leadership has a significant effect on sustainable performance in private and public universities directly and indirectly. Additionally, green orchestration innovation mediates the link between responsible leadership and sustainable performance. Practical implications This study recommends that Indonesian universities adopt responsible leadership to enhance sustainability, emphasizing environmental awareness, inclusive decision-making and resource optimization through green innovation. Clear policies, curriculum and daily practices should also model long-term environmental responsibility for students. Originality/value This study integrates the natural resource-based view with resource orchestration theory. Besides, it is the first to introduce the concept of green orchestration innovation, combining green innovation and resource orchestration capabilities within the context of higher education.